Following a report by the National Labour Committee on one of its factories in China, Microsoft have stated that they will be investigating the situation.
The NLC claims workers as young as 14 are putting in 15 hour shifts, up to seven days a week, for 52 cents an hour. They are allegedly housed in primitive dorm rooms, served poor quality food, denied freedom of movement and forced to work in extreme temperatures.
”We take very seriously our corporate responsibility to ensure that the manufacturing facilities and supply chain operations that we use comply with all relevant labour and safety requirements and ensure fair treatment of workers,” wrote Brian Tobey, head of manufacturing for Microsoft’s Entertainment and Devices division.
”As a result of this report, we have a team of independent auditors en route to the facility to conduct a complete and thorough investigation. If we find that the factory is not adhering to our standards, we will take appropriate action.”
Yes, that’s right Microsoft, tell the whole world your plan so that the factory owners have time for a cover-up before you get there. I sincerely hope you make things right.
